Lamu Coal Power Plant Fact Sheet

BACKGROUND
• The Government of Kenya has proposed a 1,050 Megawatt (MW) coal plant to be built
in Kwasasi, Lamu County 20km from Lamu Town.
• The project will be operated by Amu Power – a special purpose joint venture of two
Kenyan companies: Gulf Energy and Centum.
• Residents of Lamu County are opposed to the plant due to the negative economic,
environmental, and health impacts they will endure as a result of burning coal for
electricity in Lamu.

LAMU COAL POWER STATION WILL CAUSE IRREPARABLE DAMAGE
• To human health:
• Burning coal releases toxic particulate matter into the air. These particulates cause
asthma, bronchitis, cardiac disease, and cancer.
• To fish, crops, and wildlife:
• Burning coal requires millions of gallons of water to keep the plant cool. After the
water is used, the now-hot water will be released back into the ocean around Lamu.
The increased temperature will harm the fish in the water and destroy the livelihood of
the fishermen and the fishing industry.
• The particulate matter also creates acid rain, which can ruin water systems and crops,
plants, and trees, and affect fish and wildlife. The nitrogen in acid rain kills fish and
shellfish.
• And to Lamu Town:
• The particles will cause corrosion and other damage to the historic buildings and
structures.
• Burning coal creates hazy pollution that limits visibility and could reduce tourism to
Lamu.